The Micronesians Archives - Honolulu Civil Beat

First we nuked their islands and then we took control of the whole region. In exchange, Micronesians can move to the U.S. without restriction. And they are coming — by the tens of thousands — for health care, education and jobs.

Most Americans have never even heard of the Compact of Free Association, but that may change as federal aid runs out, raising urgent questions about our moral, financial and legal responsibility to Micronesians.

Diabetes and cancer are rampant throughout Micronesia, largely thanks to the legacy of nuclear tests and Western culture. But most islands lack adequate medical facilities, making migration a necessity.

The Micronesian diaspora has spread out across the country, but many Americans still don’t realize who their new neighbors are.

Special Report

The Micronesians

About the Series

Micronesians are leaving their home islands by the tens of thousands and coming to the U.S. This special report follows that journey and examines the effect it’s having on the communities in which they are settling.

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First we nuked their islands and then we took control of the whole region. In exchange, Micronesians can move to the U.S. without restriction. And they are coming — by the tens of thousands — for health care, education and jobs.

Most Americans have never even heard of the Compact of Free Association, but that may change as federal aid runs out, raising urgent questions about our moral, financial and legal responsibility to Micronesians.

Diabetes and cancer are rampant throughout Micronesia, largely thanks to the legacy of nuclear tests and Western culture. But most islands lack adequate medical facilities, making migration a necessity.

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Hawaii and Guam are feeling the effects of thousands of Micronesian immigrants relocating in search of jobs, education and health care. But with the burden on social services comes a rich cultural contribution.

Pohnpei and Kosrae are two places where the residents live simple rural lifestyles, with fishing and farming as a way of life. But many people also struggle with alcohol and drug abuse and U.S. dollars do little to help pay for services.

The Micronesian exodus is taking tens of thousands of people to communities throughout the U.S. By some estimates, 30 percent of those in the Pacific region have left their home countries, with about half of the immigrants now living on the mainland.